It doesn't get much better than cosying up in a local pub that's full of charm and comforts — with plenty of choice on the kegs — and the 2025 list of the Top 50 Gastropubs in the UK, sponsored by Estrella Damm, has revealed the best spots in the country for doing just that.
Pubs across the country were studied and ranked, with lots of London and Manchester pubs making up the 50-strong list, but only one Gloucestershire pub stood out to judges this year.
The Woolpack Inn in Slad is known for its incredible views of the Cotswolds and its top-class pub grub, with a menu created by its head chef, Adam Glover.
Attracting the acclaim of critics, Adam showcases quality local ingredients in a hearty list of dishes that change weekly.
Starting at number 72 in the Top 100 list in 2023, The Woolpack climbed to 34 in 2024 and reached new heights at a dizzying number 19 in 2025.
The annual list celebrates all the elements that make up a gastropub — a term defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as a 'public house which specialises in serving high-quality food.'
Gastropubs gained notoriety when The Stagg Inn at Titley in Herefordshire became the first pub to be granted a Michelin Star, with around 20 now sporting the esteemed badge of honour.
The Woolpack was made famous by English poet and author Laurie Lee, a regular punter at the 300-year-old establishment. It immortalises the writer's work in a cabinet as part of its tiny book shop, alongside the Laurie Lee bottle collection.
The team also recently launched a sister restaurant, Juliet, in Stroud, serving up beautiful French and Italian dishes within a casual bistro-style dining space — a continuation of culinary success in Gloucestershire.
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